Transforming Early Pregnancy Loss Care: Co-Designing Patient-Centred Solutions

Population Health Management
In Progress
Maternal and child health, Primary Care
July 2026 onward | Funders: Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) – Catalyst Grant: Partnering for Impact | Partners: Pregnancy and Infant Loss (PAIL) Network, Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health (PCMCH), UPLEARN (University of Toronto's Practice- and Community-Based LEarning And Research Network), Better Outcomes Registry and Network (BORN) Ontario, Vitala Global

About

Early pregnancy loss (EPL), or miscarriage, affects up to one in four pregnancies in Canada, yet many individuals struggle to access timely, compassionate, and appropriate care. This project brings together patients, healthcare providers, and community partners to co-design improvements to EPL care. Using patient journey mapping, provider surveys, and evidence from existing care models, we will identify gaps and develop solutions that reduce reliance on emergency departments and improve follow-up and support. The project will also create a digital information platform integrated with existing networks and resources to provide clear guidance on care. Our goal is to make EPL care more accessible, coordinated, and responsive across Canada.

Impact

This project will improve access to timely, compassionate, and coordinated care for early pregnancy loss by reducing reliance on emergency departments and strengthening community-based care. By identifying gaps and working with patients, providers, and community partners to design solutions, it will support earlier care, clearer follow-up, and better access to emotional and mental health supports. The project will also develop a digital information platform to help people find and navigate care more easily, improving experiences and outcomes for individuals and families across Ontario and Canada.

(Image credit: Pexels)

Team Members

  • The team below includes both CIHR-funded investigators and additional collaborators who have joined the project.
  • Archna Gupta (Principal Investigator)
  • Michelle LaFontaine (PAIL Network, Principal Knowledge User)
  • Andrew Pinto (UPLEARN, Collaborator)
  • Victor Ng (Co-investigator)
  • Joel Ray (Co-investigator)
  • Tali Bogler (Co-investigator)
  • Milena Forte (Co-investigator)
  • Noor Ramji (Co-investigator)
  • Andrea Simpson (Co-investigator)
  • Lucy Barker (Co-investigator)
  • David Eisen (Co-investigator)
  • Catherine Varier (Co-investigator)
  • Roopan Gill (Vitala Global, Co-investigator)
  • Han Yan (Postdoctoral fellow)
  • Amber Jolly (Trainee)
  • Simran Joneja (Trainee)
  • Radhika Gandhi (Research Coordinator)

Advisory Members

  • This project will be guided by a multi-stakeholder Steering Committee led by Principal Investigator Archna Gupta and Principal Knowledge User Michelle LaFontaine. The committee will bring together people with lived experience, healthcare providers, system leaders, and community partners to provide direction and oversight. It will play a key role in ensuring the project reflects a wide range of perspectives and addresses the needs and priorities of individuals and families.

Contact Information